Introvert or Extrovert?

Written By: Emily Beck

(May 26, 2022)

Which one are you?

The terms introvert and extrovert are often used in casual conversation, and many people identify with one or the other. These terms, while used frequently, can be misused or misunderstood. So, what does it mean to be an introvert or an extrovert?

An introvert is someone who gets energy from alone time, while an extrovert is someone who gets energy from being around other people. While some introverts are shy and some extroverts are outgoing, some can be introverted and outgoing, or extroverted and shy. Someone who is extroverted will feel energized after social encounters, and more drained from alone time. An introvert may feel drained after a social encounter and need a few hours by themselves. An ambivert is a term used to describe someone who experiences both things- energy from being alone, and energy from being with others- depending on the scenario. 

Knowing whether you are an introvert, or an extrovert can make a big difference in self-care practices

For introverts, here are some tips for self-care

1. Scheduling alone time daily

2. Leaving a social encounter when you start to feel drained

3. Saying no when you don’t have the energy to be social

4. Living by yourself or having clear boundaries with roommates or partners about how you spend your time.

For Extroverts, here are some tips for self-care:

1. Invite friends or family to your home

2. Living with other people

3. Finding creative ways to interact with others, such as playing games online, or involving yourself in the community

4. Working in a setting that involves collaboration

While Extroverts tend to be more optimistic, Introverts tend to be more analytical. Both traits are helpful when making decisions and collaborating with someone who thinks differently than you do can help create a new perspective. To figure out if you are more introverted or extroverted, pay attention to how you feel after social gatherings. After leaving a party, are you energized? Or do you need to go home and rest? Do you prefer large gatherings or small ones? How do you work best? In a group? Or by yourself?

All of these things can help determine how to best care for yourself, and how to make the most of how your brain works. 

Knowing yourself is key to knowing how to care for yourself appropriately. While there are many ways to get to know yourself better, therapy is a great place to start. Interested? Email us or give us a call today at 217-203-2008.

References

https://www.healthline.com/health/extrovert-vs-introvert#introvert-signs

https://www.cnet.com/health/the-difference-between-introverts-and-extroverts/

https://www.scienceofpeople.com/ambivert/

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